Calcium chloride
Learn what Calcium chloride (E509) is, why it's added to food, whether it's safe, and which products contain it.
Generally recognized as safeWhat is Calcium chloride?
Food additive used as a stabilizer, thickening agent, hardening agent, and metal ion sequestering agent. It is a natural component of sea salt. It is used in dairy products, both matured and non-matured cheeses, whey products, ice cream, spreadable fats, water-oil emulsions, sweet creams, processed fruits and vegetables, meats, fish, eggs, cereals, bakery products, confectionery, pasta, breakfast cereals, beer, wine, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, nutritional supplements, dietary products, sauces, spices, salads, etc. It is also used as a support for other additives.
Why is Calcium chloride added to food?
Calcium chloride (E509) is a hardening agent commonly found in: Matured Cheeses, Margarine.
Permitted quantity: No daily intake limit.
Is Calcium chloride safe?
Generally recognized as safe
No secondary effects have been reported for the quantities used in food.
Is Calcium chloride banned anywhere?
✓ Not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
Is Calcium chloride okay for kids?
Not allowed in food intended for infants and young children.
Common foods that contain Calcium chloride
- Matured Cheeses
- Margarine
How to spot Calcium chloride on labels
Look for any of these names in the ingredients list:
- E509
- Calcium chloride
Common misspellings to watch for:
- caleium chloride
- calcium chloride
- ealcium chloride
- calclum chloride
- cdlcium chloride
- calcium ehloride
- calcium chlorlde
Better alternatives
• Sensitivity to calcium: Individuals with sensitivity or intolerance to calcium may experience adverse reactions such as abdominal discomfort, diarrhea, or constipation. • Kidney conditions: Individuals with renal insufficiency should avoid calcium chloride, as kidneys may have difficulty processing excess calcium, leading to its accumulation in the body and additional complications. • Excess calcium: Excessive consumption of calcium chloride can lead to hypercalcemia, manifesting symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, extreme fatigue, confusion, and in severe cases, heart problems. • Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a doctor before consuming products containing calcium chloride to avoid risks of excessive calcium accumulation in the body.
Also known as
- caleium chloride
- calcium chloride
- ealcium chloride
- calclum chloride
- cdlcium chloride
- calcium ehloride
- calcium chlorlde
Scan products with BioBrief
Not sure if a product contains Calcium chloride? BioBrief scans the barcode and instantly shows you every additive in the ingredients list — including E509 — with a plain-language explanation.
Frequently asked questions about Calcium chloride
- Is Calcium chloride safe to eat?
- No secondary effects have been reported for the quantities used in food.
- Is Calcium chloride banned anywhere?
- Calcium chloride is not currently banned in the EU or known to be restricted in other countries.
- Is Calcium chloride safe for children?
- Not allowed in food intended for infants and young children.
- How do I spot Calcium chloride on a food label?
- Look for E509, Calcium chloride in the ingredients list. It may also appear as: caleium chloride, calcium chloride, ealcium chloride.
Ingredients change. Always check the actual product label before purchasing. Information on this page is for educational purposes only.